The Thai army has downplayed concerns over Cambodian troops digging trenches and installing barbed wire near the border in Si Sa Ket province, saying the activity appears to be defensive rather than an attempt to encroach on Thai territory.
The Second Army Region said it had investigated a video circulating on social media showing Cambodian forces carrying out earthworks near the Chong Sa-ngam border crossing.
After checking the location with units operating in the area, Thai authorities identified the site as Hill 450 in the Chong Kradon area of Phu Sing district.
Cambodian forces build trenches at Hill 450
According to the Thai army, Cambodian forces have dug communication trenches and installed barbed wire around a Cambodian military position at the summit of Hill 450.
The position is located close to the Thai operational line and has reportedly been used since Cambodia’s period of internal conflict.
The construction prompted concern online that Cambodian forces could be moving closer to or attempting to enter Thai territory.
However, the Second Army Region said its assessment did not indicate that the work constituted an encroachment.
Instead, Thai authorities described the trenches and barbed wire as additional defensive measures intended to protect Cambodian personnel along their existing deployment line.
Thai forces continue monitoring the area
Although the Thai army does not currently regard the construction as an act of aggression, it said the area remains under close observation.
The Suranaree Task Force is monitoring Cambodian movements for unusual activity or developments that could increase tensions.
The continued surveillance reflects the sensitivity of the border following years of disputes and the armed clashes that affected Thailand and Cambodia.
Thai authorities said their priority is to prevent local developments from escalating into unnecessary confrontation.
Ceasefire agreement remains in focus
The Second Army Region said Thailand continues to operate in accordance with the Joint Statement signed on December 27, 2025.
The agreement established a ceasefire framework after fighting between the two countries and remains an important reference point for military activity along the disputed border.
Thai authorities said they are committed to respecting the agreement while protecting the country’s sovereignty and the safety of communities living near the frontier.
The army has also continued improving access to its own operational positions in the area to support personnel and improve safety.
Border tensions remain sensitive
The latest development comes as Thailand and Cambodia continue to manage a fragile relationship following their previous military confrontation.
Even defensive construction can quickly become a source of suspicion when troops from both sides are deployed close to each other.
The circulation of the trench video on social media illustrates how images from the border can generate concern before authorities have verified what is actually happening on the ground.
Thai officials have therefore sought to distinguish between legitimate defensive preparations and actions that could represent an escalation.
No immediate confrontation reported
For now, the Thai army says there is no indication that the Cambodian trench construction represents an immediate threat or an attempt to seize Thai territory.
The Suranaree Task Force will continue monitoring the Hill 450 area and surrounding border positions.
The latest assessment provides some reassurance that the construction itself has not triggered a new confrontation.
But with Thai and Cambodian forces still operating in close proximity, authorities on both sides will face continued pressure to prevent defensive preparations, troop movements or misunderstandings from reigniting tensions along the border.
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